Phoenix Mercury vs Minnesota Lynx: Prediction, Starting Lineups and Odds | 2024 WNBA Season (May 31)

The two Western Conference teams, the Phoenix Mercury and the Minnesota Lynx will battle against each other on May 31. There is significant excitement surrounding the match between the Phoenix Mercury and the Minnesota Lynx, as it will feature some of the marquee names in the WNBA.

The Phoenix Mercury boasts a star-studded squad comprising Diana Taurasi, Kahleah Copper and Natasha Cloud, among others. The Minnesota Lynx have Napheesa Collier, Kayla McBride and Alanna Smith in their ranks.

The Minnesota Lynx are off to a 4-2 start this season, ranking them second in the Western Conference. The Phoenix Mercury started their season in scorching form, jumping to a 3-1 record. However, since then, the Phoenix Mercury have lost three games in a row and dropped to 3-4 on the season.

Phoenix Mercury vs. Minnesota Lynx: Preview, starting lineups and prediction

It will be the first meeting between the Phoenix Mercury and Minnesota Lynx when the two teams step on the court on Friday. The game is scheduled to be staged at the Target Center in Minnesota. The game is slated for tip-off at 9:30 p.m. ET (6:30 p.m. PT).

Moneyline: Phoenix Mercury (+250) vs. Minnesota Lynx (310)

Spread: Phoenix Mercury (+7) vs. Minnesota Lynx (-7)

Total (O/U): Phoenix Mercury (o165.5-110) vs. Minnesota Lynx (U165.5-110)

Phoenix Mercury vs. Minnesota Lynx: Game Preview

The Minnesota Lynx excel at distributing the ball, leading the league in assists per game (23.3). The primary reason behind the Lynx's success has been their defense, which is the second-best in the league with a defensive rating of 92.5.

The Minnesota Lynx lead the league in steals per game (11.2) and rank second in blocks per game (6.5), showcasing the team's ability to stifle opposing offenses. Napheesa Collier has emerged as an early MVP candidate, leading the team in points (22.2) and rebounds (10.8).

The Phoenix Mercury have dropped significantly in every major statistical category since their 3-1 start to the season. They are ranked 10th out of the 12 teams in offensive rating (97.3) and 11th in defensive rating (103.8). While the franchise has made the most three-pointers (72) this season, they are ranked in the middle of the pack in terms of three-point percentage (33.2).

When the Phoenix Mercury were winning matches at the start of the season, Kahleah Copper was averaging over 30 points per game. Copper has cooled off recently, directly impacting the team's performance. Copper still leads the Phoenix Mercury in points (24.7), while Diana Taurasi and Natasha Cloud are the other two players averaging double figures in points per game.

Phoenix Mercury vs. Minnesota Lynx: Starting lineups and depth charts

Phoenix Mercury starting lineups and depth charts

Guards	Forwards	Centers
Diana Taurasi*	Rebecca Allen (out)	Brittney Griner (out)
Natasha Cloud*	Natasha Mack*
Kahleah Copper*	Liz Dixon
Sug Sutton (out)	Mikiah Herbert Harrigan
Sophie Cunnigham*	Morgan Bertsch

Minnesota Lynx starting lineups and depth charts

Alanna Smith C, Bridget Carleton F, Napheesa Collier F, Courtney Williams G, Kayla McBride G

Natisha Hiedeman is likely to be the first player off the bench for Minnesota Lynx. Cecilia Zandalasini and Dorka Juhasz will also play a crucial role for the Lynx off the bench.

Phoenix Mercury vs. Minnesota Lynx: Prediction

The Minnesota Lynx currently hold a three-game win streak over the Phoenix Mercury. Looking at how the Phoenix Mercury have struggled lately, Minnesota is likely to extend their dominance over Phoenix. Playing at home only bolsters Minnesota Lynx's chances of a victory.